Coeloglossum viride, commonly known as frog orchid, is a perennial herbaceous plant belonging to the Orchidaceae family. It is native to Europe, including parts of Asia and North America. The name "Coeloglossum" is derived from the Greek words "coelos," meaning hollow, and "glossa," meaning tongue, referring to the lip of the flower. "Viride" means green, which highlights the characteristic green color of the plant.
This orchid species typically grows in moist, calcareous habitats, such as damp meadows, bogs, and marshes. It features a single, slender stem reaching heights of up to 30 centimeters. The leaves are lanceolate or oblong, and they grow in a basal rosette formation. The flowers are small, green, and inconspicuous, arranged in dense spikes. Each flower has a lip that is divided into three lobes, with the middle lobe sometimes resembling a frog's foot, giving the plant its common name.
Coeloglossum viride is a hardy orchid species that can tolerate a range of climates and soil conditions. It relies on symbiotic relationships with specific soil fungi to obtain nutrients, as it lacks true roots. It reproduces both by self-pollination and by attracting various insect species for pollination.
In some regions, Coeloglossum viride is protected by conservation regulations due to its declining populations caused by habitat destruction and over-collection. It is also favored by numerous orchid enthusiasts for its unique appearance.
